Senator Distributes Relief Materials to IDPs in Benue North-East
By Christian Asema
Benue North-East Senator, Barr. Emmanuel Memga Udende, has vowed to continue advocating for his people as long as attacks by suspected herdsmen persist in the region. He made this statement at his residence in Sankera, Ukum Local Government Area, during the distribution of relief materials to internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Kwande, Katsina-Ala, Ukum, and Logo Local Government Areas.
The displaced persons, currently taking refuge in camps across Zaki-Biam, Jato Aka, Abaji, Anyiin, Ayilamo, and other locations, received essential supplies in an effort to ease their suffering. Udende, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, emphasized that the relief materials were secured through motions he moved in the National Assembly condemning the killings in his senatorial district.
He explained that a Senate resolution directed the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide relief to affected communities. Expressing gratitude to NEMA for responding, Udende assured his constituents that this was just the first phase of distributions, with more aid expected soon. “More trucks will arrive in the coming days. I urge everyone to remain calm,” he said.
Benue State House of Assembly members representing Katsina-Ala East and Ukum State Constituencies, Rt. Hon. Jonathan Agbidye and Ezra Nyiyongo, commended the senator’s efforts, urging him to continue advocating for security and support for his people.
Traditional rulers, including the Acting Mue Ter Ipusu in Logo and the District Heads of Mbazum and Mbatian in Ukum, Chiefs John Kungwa and Orndigh, lamented the worsening insecurity in their communities. They called for urgent intervention from both state and federal governments to end the attacks and allow displaced farmers to return home.
The relief items distributed included food supplies such as parboiled rice, garri, iodized salt, vegetable oil, spaghetti, seasoning cubes, and tomato paste. Non-food items such as foam mattresses, blankets, and nylon mats were also provided to improve living conditions in the IDP camps.
As the crisis continues to affect the region, Senator Udende reassured his constituents of his unwavering commitment to their welfare, promising continued efforts to secure relief and long-term solutions.
